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Full-Text Articles in Communication
Negotiation Of Face Between Bereaved Parents And Their Social Networks, M. Chad Mcbride, Paige W. Toller
Negotiation Of Face Between Bereaved Parents And Their Social Networks, M. Chad Mcbride, Paige W. Toller
Communication Faculty Publications
For many bereaved parents, talking about their child's death and their grief experiences is a way to cope with grief. Unfortunately, communicating with others often proves difficult for parents and their social networks, often because of face threats. The purpose of the present study is to identify how the face needs of parents and their social network is communicatively negotiated. Fifty-three bereaved parents were interviewed and the data analyzed, resulting in a theme of protection. The findings highlight ways in which both the parents' and others' positive and negative faces were co-managed. These findings highlight the complex nature of facework …
Bereaved Parents' Experiences Of Supportive And Unsupportive Communication, Paige W. Toller
Bereaved Parents' Experiences Of Supportive And Unsupportive Communication, Paige W. Toller
Communication Faculty Publications
This study examines bereaved parents' experiences of supportive and unsupportive communication using the optimal matching model of stress and social support (Cutrona & Russell, 1990). Analysis of the interviews revealed that parents described action-facilitating support as supportive, although information-giving was experienced as unsupportive. Regarding nurturant support, bereaved parents felt emotionally supported when family and friends were willing to talk about their deceased child. Parents also described network support as helping them cope with their grief. The results of this study indicate that listening, being present, and honoring the ongoing connection parents have with their deceased child are key ways …